Canadian International Language Education Background

Canada's identity is one made up of a mosaic of languages and cultures, all combining to form a unique multicultural country. International language programs/instructors play an important role in maintaining and strengthening Canada's identity by providing a cross-cultural perspective of our country through international language education. Statistically, international language instructors promote Canada's mosaic through the teaching of over 45 languages across the country.

In other words, heritage/international language education reinforces the Canadian identity and strengthens our unique multicultural make-up.

What is the Canadian Language Association?

The Canadian Languages Association (CLA) was established in 1994 as a national body dedicated to the preservation and promotion of international/heritage languages in Canada.

The CLA provides a networking function among international/heritage language organizations across Canada. The Canadian Languages Association is committed to working in cooperation with all language and cultural associations, educational institutions, government departments, business groups, and community stakeholders at the provincial and federal levels to promote the value of international/heritage languages education for all Canadians.

Please visit the CLA's regional affiliates and find out what is happening in terms of language education across Canada by clicking on the map below.

What are the objectives of the CLA?

► To promote the preservation, development and enhancement of international/heritage languages in Canada.

► To strengthen the framework for communication and coordination among international/heritage language organizations.

► To promote cooperation and mutual support for organizations with similar objectives and encourage inter-provincial and national liaison.

► To promote cooperation among national and regional organizations involved in language education in matters relating to instructor training.

► To facilitate the development of a national strategic plan for skill development and accreditation of language instructors.

► To promote the value of language learning (for all Canadians) in terms of its positive impact on economic growth.

► To facilitate the development, collection and dissemination of resource material for language education.

► To promote the enhancement of language skills and cultural insights of ethnocultural communities.

► To facilitate intercultural understanding.

► To promote teaching of international languages within the mainstream public education system in all parts of Canada.

► The CLA also strives to increase public awareness and understanding as well as create a platform for informed public dialogue about multiculturalism, racism and cultural diversity in Canada through a focus on

Other related and key objectives are to:

► Promote cross-cultural understanding and anti-racism education through heritage/international language education and promotion.

► Provide networking and information sharing opportunities for heritage/international language instructors, parents, community liaisons, business representatives, academics, and government officials/representatives.

► Strengthen contacts with representatives of heritage/international language schools across the country.

► Provide short-term but intensive skill development opportunities for heritage/international language instructors and individuals interested in the promotion of heritage/international language education from across the country.

► Initiate and develop research projects on issues relating to heritage/international languages.